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Facial nerve palsy caused by parotid gland abscess

R N Kristensen1, C H Hahn

  • 1ENT Department, Gentofte University Hospital, Copenhagen, Denmark. rasmusnkristensen@gmail.com

The Journal of Laryngology and Otology
|October 25, 2011
PubMed
Abstract

Insights

Facial nerve palsy can result from parotid gland abscesses caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus or Propionibacterium acnes. Prompt imaging is recommended for suspected suppurative parotitis.

Area of Science:

  • Otolaryngology
  • Infectious Diseases
  • Neurology

Background:

  • Facial nerve palsy secondary to parotid gland abscess is a rare clinical presentation.
  • Only eight cases of parotid abscess leading to facial nerve palsy have been previously reported.

Observation:

  • Two female patients presented with unilateral facial paralysis due to parotid gland abscess within a two-month period.
  • One abscess was caused by methicillin-resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA), and the other by Propionibacterium acnes.
  • The first patient experienced no recovery of facial nerve function.

Findings:

  • This study reports the first cases of parotid abscesses caused by MRSA and P. acnes complicated by facial nerve palsy.
  • Parotid gland abscesses are identified as a potential cause of facial paralysis.
  • Both MRSA and P. acnes can be implicated in the development of these complex abscesses.

Implications:

  • Early diagnosis of parotid abscess is crucial in patients with suppurative parotitis to prevent complications like facial nerve palsy.
  • Imaging modalities such as ultrasonography or computed tomography are recommended for accurate diagnosis.
  • Understanding the causative pathogens, including MRSA and P. acnes, can guide appropriate antibiotic selection and treatment strategies.

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